We want to help protect you from scammers that attempt to impersonate utility company representatives. Remember these important clues so that you can identify scams and keep your account and information safe:
- Scammers may try to use Calls, Texts, and Emails to impersonate utility company representatives. If you are ever unsure, it is safest to end the call/chat and reach out directly to your utility provider using the phone number on your utility bill or on the utility provider's website.
- Always go through the Rio Power & Light website when seeking customer support or when looking to make changes to your account.
- Our agents will NEVER ask for payment via: Cash, Money wire transfers, Prepaid debit cards, Gift cards, PayPal, Venmo, Square Pay or Apple Pay.
- All billing matters related to your electric service, including disconnection for non-payment, are handled through Rio Power & Light and NOT CenterPoint Energy.
- Be wary of false urgency. Scammers may try to create a sense of urgency to persuade you to do what they're asking. Be wary any time someone tries to convince you that you must act now. We will NOT disconnect your services without first:
- Mailing you a bill, noting your account is now overdue.
- If the balance remains unpaid, we will mail you a DISCONNECTION NOTICE, stating the approximate disconnection date and time.
- What to Do if You are Scammed by Utility Fraud? Share info with neighbors, friends and family members and on Social media. Call your utility provider using the phone number on your utility bill or on the utility provider's website. Call local law enforcement to report the fraud.